Things You Should Know About Dog Part 17
A dog whose ancestors parents, grandparents and great grandparents - were all the same bred is called a pedigree, or purebred. Pedigree dogs are usually very expensive to buy but one advantage is that their will grow, and what their personalities will be like.
Bulldogs might look fierce, but they are actually sweet-natured and make good pets for children. Unfortunately they tire very easly and cannot walk long distances before needing a rest. They also get uncomfortable in hot weather and tend to breathe quite noisily. Bulldogs were originally bred to tackle bulls by grabbing their noses with their front teeth!
Greyhounds lived over 4000 years ago in ancient egypt, and pictures of them were drawn on the walls of the pyramids. These slender and athletic pedigrees are famous for their love of running and they are often bred and trained to take part in races. They have gentle natures and enjoy being with children.
Dogs that are not pedigree or purebred are called mongrels. Ussually the breed of their parents is not known and they may be a mixture of lots of different breeds. Mongrels are often healthier than pedigree dogs. If a dog of one breed mates with a dog of another breed, the puppies are called cross-breeds.
Bloodhounds are famous for their droopy ears. It is thought that they were first brought to Britain in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Bloodhounds have a fantastic sense of smell, and are often used as tracker dogs. |